Painting cat’s eyes in watercolour requires a careful balance of precision and softness to capture their luminous, reflective quality. The eyes are often the focal point of a cat portrait, so mastering them is essential. We will see that they are spheres, set into the skull so prone to shadows, and that they are moist, so the highlights are crucial.

Start by sketching the eye’s shape lightly, ensuring correct proportions and placement. Begin with a light wash of the base colour - often shades of green, gold, or blue - allowing it to dry before layering deeper tones. Use wet-on-wet techniques to create smooth transitions of colour within the iris, adding depth and realism.

The pupil is crucial; it should be painted with a strong, dark value. Since cat pupils change shape depending on light, they might be narrow slits or large, round openings. A rich dark mixed with a touch of blue or brown gives depth to the pupil.

Reflections in the eye are key to making it look lifelike. We will explore simplifying the highlight. Soft edges in some areas of the iris, combined with crisp, hard edges around reflections and pupils, create realism.

Finally, blend subtle shadows around the eye to anchor it into the face, ensuring it doesn’t appear flat. With patience and layering, cat eyes can glow with a mesmerizing, lifelike intensity.